A Nygaard Approach to Values of Zeta Functions of Schemes over Finite Fields

Abstract: In this note, we discuss a streamlined proof of a result due to Milne computing special values of zeta functions for smooth proper schemes over a finite field $\mathbb{F}_q$. The proof will give a natural interpretation of the correction factor in terms of invariants constructed from prismatic cohomology, studied by Morin. We then discuss the modifications needed when passing from the smooth case to an arbitrary scheme $X$ of finite type over $\mathbb{F}_q$, at least assuming a strong form of resolution of singularities.